Maharashtra FDA Suspends Blink Commerce Food Licence in Malad West Over Hygiene Lapses
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food licence of Blink Commerce Private Limited in Malad (West), Mumbai, after an official inspection revealed severe hygiene lapses, pest infestations, and multiple violations of food safety regulations.
The action was taken after Food Safety Officers conducted an inspection at the Malad (West) facility on August 7. During the check, officials found food items stored directly on the floor and placed on rusted racks inside the establishment. The inspection also highlighted inadequate cleaning practices within the establishment's cold storage area, alongside the presence of expired and tampered packaged food products.
FDA officials reported a heavy cockroach infestation in the fruit and vegetable storage section, raising significant concerns regarding the risk of food contamination. Further inspection of the cold room yielded additional expired, damaged, and tampered packaged goods.
Beyond storage conditions, the establishment failed to adhere to mandatory stock management standards. Officials recorded non-compliance with both First In, First Out (FIFO) and First Expired, First Out (FEFO) stock rotation practices. The inspection report further noted inadequate pest and rodent control measures, poor waste management systems, and a general lack of proper cleaning and maintenance throughout the facility.
Health and safety protocols for staff were also found to be lacking. The FDA reported an absence of medical examination and health records for workers engaged in handling food products. Furthermore, required personal hygiene facilities and protective equipment were reportedly not available for the workers at the premises.
As a result of these findings, the FDA suspended Blink Commerce's food licence, registered under No. 11524010000119, in accordance with Section 32(3) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, as well as relevant licensing regulations. The suspension order is set from July 27, 2026, until further orders are issued.
During this suspension period, the establishment is prohibited from selling, distributing, or carrying out any form of food business. The FDA has explicitly warned that strict legal action will follow if the unit is found operating in violation of the suspension order.
